SIGNED INTO LAWin 1964 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, the Wilderness Act was a triumph for all who enjoy the open landscapes of America and the natural heritage they represent. Today, more than 100 million acres are protected by the National Wilderness Preservation System to ensure these areas remain ecologically sound and environmentally pristine for future generations. In 2014, the Wilderness Act will reach its 50th Anniversary.In tribute to this milestone, Wilderness50—a coalition of government agencies, nonprofit groups, foundations, and other supporters—have joined together to celebrate the 50-year mark through numerous educational events, including the “Wilderness Forever” nationwide photography competition and print exhibition at the Smithsonian.

ABOUT THE COMPETITION: THEWilderness50COALITION, distinguished panel of judges, the Smithsonian Institution, and the team at Nature’s Best Photography now invite photographers at all levels of experience to enter the new “Wilderness Forever” photography competition. This call for entries seeks your best photos and personal stories and experiences within America’s protected wilderness areas (see the official list link: www.wilderness.net/NWPS/stateView?state=AK)

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION: CATEGORY WINNERSand a selection of Highly Honored photos will be displayed in a 2014 print exhibition at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, one of the most widely respected and highly visited museums in the world. In addition, all winning images will be published in a special publication produced to commemorate this golden anniversary event and promoted nationwide through other electronic, print, and event promotions. Each of the four contest categories will have a Pro, Amateur, and Student winner, plus Honorable Mentions. Download the Entry Guidelines for complete details, rules, and categories: Entry Guidelines PDF

Story:“I was on vacation near Cranbrook, British Columbia taking photos of hummingbirds. While shooting this rufous another rufous over my head caught the attention of this guy. I captured him just as he turned to enforce his territory.”

We chose this photograph to celebrate the festivities on this chilly Christmas day.

Click on the Picture of the Week button on the Nature’s Best Photography website to see this week’s featured photo sent in by Chase Dekker entitled “A Moose Beneath the Brush”: http://www.naturesbestphotography.com/

No use without photographer’s permission under any circumstances.

Subject: Shiras Bull MooseLocation: Antelope Flats in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, USAPhotographer: Chase DekkerThe story:“I ventured out to Grand Teton National Park this December to photograph the beautiful and quiet park during it’s off winter season. I spend a lot of time with moose and was able to find a group of 12 moose out in the sagebrush flats. During a snow flurry, I sat quietly with this bull for quite some time as he took a rest from eating all day.”

**Notice** The image will be available to view on our website from Tuesday, December 25, until Monday, December 31, 2012.